In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs, Rob Finkelstein sits down with Trevor Schrier—former collegiate wrestler turned finance professional and founder of an innovative AI solutions company. Trevor shares his powerful story of transitioning from the grind of athletic competition to the fast-paced world of business, breaking down the mindset shifts, relationships, and lessons that fueled his transformation.
Having walked the difficult path from athlete to entrepreneur, Trevor opens up about the identity challenges many face after sports, and how building strong networks—especially within the alumni community—can unlock powerful opportunities. His journey highlights the unique skills athletes bring to the table and the importance of staying adaptable in a constantly evolving world.
Rob and Trevor explore how athletes can start preparing early for life after sports, why entrepreneurship might be a natural fit, and how AI is creating exciting new possibilities for those willing to pivot and learn. This episode is a playbook for resilience, reinvention, and real-world readiness.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Your Sport is a Chapter, Not the Whole Book: Athletes often face identity loss when the game ends—embrace the opportunity to write your next story.
- Start Building Early: Internships, networking, and mentorship shouldn’t wait until after graduation.
- Leverage Your Network: The athlete and alumni community is full of people ready to help—you just have to reach out.
- Entrepreneurship is a Journey of Grit: The same perseverance that pushes you through practice and competition applies in business.
- AI is More Accessible Than You Think: Former athletes are stepping into tech spaces and driving innovation—there’s room for you too.
- Resilience is a Superpower: Whether on the mat or in the market, learning to bounce back is key.
- Education Gaps Exist: There’s a need for stronger support systems around financial literacy and life skills in athletics.
- Your Athletic Mindset is an Asset: Discipline, teamwork, and focus are traits every employer (or investor) values.
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🤝 Connect with Trevor Schrier:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-schrier-856957b9/
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🔗 Connect with Us:
Follow Alumni Direct for more insights, tools, and stories helping athletes thrive in life after sports:
📸 Instagram: [@AlumniDirect](https://www.instagram.com/alumnidirect)
💼 LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](https://www.linkedin.com/company/alumnidirect)
📘 Facebook: [Alumni Direct](https://www.facebook.com/alumnidirect)
If you're an athlete navigating your next chapter—or supporting someone who is—this episode offers a roadmap to finding purpose, building your network, and discovering what’s possible beyond the game. Share it with your teammates, mentors, and alumni circles.
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